Jeffrey Feltman, Former United Nations Undersecretary-General and U.S. State Department Official, Joins Brookings

Washington, D.C. — The Brookings Institution today announced that former United Nations undersecretary-general for political affairs, Jeffrey Feltman, has joined the Foreign Policy program (FP) as a visiting fellow. Feltman brings extensive diplomatic leadership to Brookings along with seasoned experience in overseeing efforts to prevent and mitigate conflict around the world acquired through his distinguished career with the United Nations and U.S. State Department.

At Brookings, Feltman joins a dynamic roster of experts providing practical analysis and policy-relevant research on the changing power dynamics in the international system and the implications for U.S. strategy and multilateral cooperation. As a Brookings visiting fellow, Feltman will continue his important work to inform policy and to enhance efforts at diplomacy in critical regions, including East Asia and the Middle East.

“We are delighted that Jeff is joining Foreign Policy at Brookings, especially at a time when the international order is facing enormous challenges and growing uncertainties,” remarked Brookings Vice President and Director of Foreign Policy Bruce Jones. “Throughout his career, Jeff has tackled international challenges by building constructive relationships with global statespersons. He brings deep expertise in conflict prevention and an unmatched grasp of diplomacy and international affairs. I am confident we will benefit enormously from his experience and insight.”

Former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon appointed Feltman as undersecretary-general for political affairs in 2012. In this capacity, Feltman oversaw diplomatic efforts to prevent and mitigate conflict across the globe. Earlier in his career, he held numerous posts in the U.S. State Department, including as ambassador to Lebanon from 2004 to 2008. He served in diplomatic postings in Tunisia, Israel, Hungary, and Haiti, and worked to coordinate assistance to Central and Eastern Europe. Immediately before his appointment to the U.N., he served as the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, achieving the rank of career minister.